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Nov
Harrogate golfers launch men's mental health challenge
Two Harrogate men have launched an endurance challenge to raise money for charity and improve awareness around men's mental health.
The team behind Harrogate-based men's wellbeing group Chip 'n' Chat, George Carroll and Andy Wilson, are walking 60km each across the month.
Mr Carroll is head professional at Harrogate Golf Club.
The distance pays tribute to the 60 men lost to suicide globally every single hour.
Chip ’n’ Chat was founded to combine golf and casual social meetups to break down the stigma around men’s mental health.
As well as their personal challenge, the pair are hosting a walk around Harrogate on November 13, inviting anyone for a casual stroll and chat. They will be carrying golf bags during the walk, to emphaises to weight people carry when battling mental health struggles.
The month of action culminates with the next official Chip ’n’ Chat meetup, taking place at Harrogate Golf Club on November 29, welcoming any local men who want to get outdoors, hit a few balls, and connect in a relaxed, supportive setting. No previous golf experience is necessary as coaching will be provided.
'It’s okay not to be okay'
Mr Carroll said:
As head pro here in Harrogate, I see how easily men can bottle things up. I’m taking on this challenge to show guys that it’s okay not to be okay, that it’s okay to talk, and that people like us are here and ready to listen.
Everyone’s situation is different, but opening up has made a huge difference in my own life, and that’s why getting behind this cause means so much to me.
Mr Wilson said:
Andy’s Man Club was key in my recovery from a breakdown in my mental health nearly 10 years ago, and it's a group I still attend and facilitate at today.
We're taking on this 60km challenge to show everyone that whatever you're going through, you don't have to carry it alone. There are groups out there that can help, and we want to get men talking and point them toward life-changing support.
The pair are aiming to raise at least £500 for Andy’s Man Club, which runs free weekly peer-to-peer support groups across the UK every Monday evening. You can sponsor their challenge here.
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